Interlude: Abbreviations, Text Recycling, and Writing Journal Club
I recently wrapped up the first offering of my Scientific Writing Masterclass. I got some great feedback from the participants, many of whom said that they want to work through even more examples. So, I decided to start a virtual Writing Journal Club.
And you're invited!
Each month, you can join fellow scientists, clinicians, and trainees in live discussions that explore the strengths and weaknesses of a scientific or medical manuscript.
As a member of the Redwood Ink community, you get early access to register before I open up registration to the public on Friday. Space is limited, so register early!
💌 Round-up
💻 From My Desk
How to Define Abbreviations in Scientific and Medical Writing
Do you know when to define abbreviations? These general guidelines will help you know when and how to define abbreviations in your writing.
Why You Need a Writing Journal Club and How to Create One
A writing journal club is a spin on the classic journal club. But rather than review the science, you review the writing to help you hone your writing skills.
📆 Upcoming
Simple Language for Expert Readers: Debunking Misconceptions for Easier and Faster Reviews – June 8, 2022, 9 am Pacific Time
I am delighted to speak for DIA Global about the value of using simple language when writing regulatory documents for expert readers. All are welcome to attend. Follow me on LinkedIn to get updated on when registration opens.
Writing Journal Club – June 22, 2022, 11 am Pacific Time
Join me for discussions with fellow scientists, clinicians, and trainees as we explore the strengths and weaknesses of scientific and medical manuscripts.
👓 Reading
Building Consensus on Author Selection Practices for Industry-sponsored Research: Recommendations From an Expert Task Force of Medical Publication Professionals
Are you unsure of whether a potential author meets the first criterion in the ICMJE guidelines for authorship? This article clarifies what is considered a substantial intellectual contribution.
Top 10 Tips for Writing Your Scientific Paper: The Radiology Scientific Style Guide
This article offers great tips for writing any clinical manuscript. I really appreciate the authors' rationale for why we make mistakes in our own papers.
#1 - It is very difficult for an author to critique their own writing.
#2 - Expert researchers and clinicians are not trained writers.
A Model Text Recycling Policy for Publishers
This article describes the challenges of "text recycling" and shares a model policy for text recycling that scientific publications can use in the publication process.
How to Stop Writing Mediocre Words: 186 Better Ways to Say “Great”
Words are a powerful tool for persuasive writing. If you over-use "great" (or similar words) in your writing, this list of synonyms is for you.
🧰 Tools
Notion
I rediscovered Notion earlier this year. The software is a really powerful and highly customizable tool for managing tasks, projects, clients, and more. I used it to create an intranet (or external brain) that helps me manage all aspects of my business.
💬 Quote
“Find a group of people who challenge and inspire you, spend a lot of time with them, and it will change your life forever.” ― Amy Poehler
💭 Thoughts
The best way to describe complexity is, paradoxically, with simplicity.
Thank you so much for reading.
Warmly,
Crystal
